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Edmonton, Alberta (August 8, 2018) – The Board of Directors of Edmonton Economic Development Corporation (EEDC) announced today that Derek Hudson has been named its President and Chief Executive Officer. The Board’s selection concludes an extensive executive search process that attracted significant interest and exceptional talent, drawn by the opportunity to carry forward the strong reputation EEDC has earned as a champion for the Edmonton region.

Derek brings over 30 years of expertise in strategy, management, finance, consulting, and performance improvement. He joined the EEDC in April 2013 and since that time served the organization as Chief Operating Officer and Corporate Secretary, before being appointed Interim CEO on April 1, 2018. Derek has held leadership responsibilities across the organization including corporate services, innovation and the Shaw Conference Centre.

“Edmonton Economic Development Corporation is a respected agent for sustainable economic growth in our community. EEDC’s impact flows from the contribution of each of our team members, who care deeply about the economic well-being of this great city,” said Derek Hudson, President & Chief Executive Officer, EEDC. “I am humbled by the Board’s decision to allow me the opportunity to lead this organization and to steward its continued relevance as a key driver of prosperity for the Edmonton region. I look forward to working with my colleagues and many stakeholders to ensure a prosperous and resilient economy which benefits all.”

“Edmonton is quickly gaining a reputation as the big Canadian city to watch – a city where entrepreneurs are inspired and encouraged. Where new and exciting work is happening and great discoveries are being made,” commented Mayor Don Iveson. “Edmonton Economic Development Corporation is integral in carrying this work forward and I look forward to working with Derek and his team as Edmonton’s economy continues to transform.”

“Derek has demonstrated an exceptional level of leadership and poise since taking on the challenge of Interim CEO at the Board’s request earlier this year,” stated Angela Fong, Chair, EEDC Board of Directors. “True to his entrepreneurial roots, Derek is an engaging leader who is also willing to roll up his sleeves to get the job done. Derek has articulated a strong vision for EEDC and, working in partnership with many of our stakeholders, the Board is confident in his ability to deliver against this mandate.”

Prior to joining EEDC, Derek was a co-founder and former CFO of Micralyne, a microtechnology spin-off from the University of Alberta. He started his career at PwC where he gained broad experience in financial reporting, performance improvement and economic development. Derek is a graduate of the University of Alberta School of Business and is a Chartered Accountant, Chartered Professional Accountant and Certified Management Consultant.

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About Edmonton Economic Development Corporation

Edmonton Economic Development Corporation is a wholly-owned entity of the City of Edmonton, governed by an independent Board of Directors. EEDC is a unique model in Canada; a multi-divisional, multi-location conglomerate agency, aligned through unified purpose, vision, and values. EEDC’s operating and governance model is scalable, creating a platform for economic development initiatives that can be started, matured, and exited as required. This unified approach, founded on principles of scalability, adaptability, and leveraging public assets, means that Edmonton can move faster on new initiatives and take on bigger risks all for the single purpose of growing our economy.